Blackbird Motorcycle Wearhttps://www.blackbirdmotorcyclewear.com
Protective wear that reflects your style, on and off the bike
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3232The 5 Best tips for trans-seasonal motorcycle ridinghttps://www.blackbirdmotorcyclewear.com/5-best-tips-trans-seasonal-motorcycle-riding/
https://www.blackbirdmotorcyclewear.com/5-best-tips-trans-seasonal-motorcycle-riding/#respondMon, 03 Apr 2017 22:04:31 +0000https://www.blackbirdmotorcyclewear.com/?p=6476Trans-seasonal dressing for motorbike rides can be difficult. You head out in the morning, cold to the bone and then in the afternoon you are taking off layers because you’re hot. Here are my best ways to master trans-seasonal riding and what to wear to keep you comfy. 1: A leather jacket for MOST seasons […]

]]>Trans-seasonal dressing for motorbike rides can be difficult. You head out in the morning, cold to the bone and then in the afternoon you are taking off layers because you’re hot. Here are my best ways to master trans-seasonal riding and what to wear to keep you comfy.

1: A leather jacket for MOST seasons

Of course in the middle of Summer (particularly where we are in Sydney, Australia) you would probably want to give the leathers a miss and go for a protective cotton jacket or denim/leather combo to lighten the heat levels. However, for the remainder of the year a leather motorcycle jacket is the perfect way to stay warm, safe and comfortable on your ride.

2: A face warmer or scarf on hand

Its an easy thing to just throw in the bottom of your carry bag and a great way to combat sometime unpredictable trans-seasonal weather. That way you have it on hand should the weather turn cold or windy.

3: Lighten up your jackets

If you are fortunate enough to have multiple riding jackets, one with a removable lining can make trans seasonal riding that much better. If you know it is going to be a cool day, leave the lining in place but should the weather man have lead you wrong that day you can take out the lining and still be good to go.

4: As with fashion, layering is key

Layering in fashion, means to dress light with layer over layer so that you can remove layers as and when you need. This also applies to riding, set off in the morning for a day trip in your shirt, jacket, face warmer and gloves. You may even need thermals or a jumper for the particularly cold mornings but towards the middle of the day, you know that you can take off some of the layers to keep on riding without regretting your clothing choice earlier that morning.

5: Gloves with perforations

Whilst keeping your hands safe, the holes allow for airflow and stop your hands from getting too hot. A nice worn in pair of leather gloves is great all year round but keep the perforated gloves for the trans seasonal and warmer months of the year.

Happy Riding, whatever the destination (and Season!)

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Please don’t hesitate to contact us here at Blackbird Motorcycle Wear if you have any questions or want to suggest future motorcycle blog ideas.

]]>https://www.blackbirdmotorcyclewear.com/5-best-tips-trans-seasonal-motorcycle-riding/feed/0How do I choose the right motorcycle jacket?https://www.blackbirdmotorcyclewear.com/choose-right-motorcycle-jacket/
https://www.blackbirdmotorcyclewear.com/choose-right-motorcycle-jacket/#respondTue, 14 Mar 2017 21:17:16 +0000https://www.blackbirdmotorcyclewear.com/?p=6445How do I choose the right motorcycle jacket? Your time should be spent out on the road enjoying the ride. So if it’s the first time you are buying a motorcycle jacket, the process can be quite time consuming. There is a lot of gear out there so it can be difficult to find the […]

]]>How do I choose the right motorcycle jacket? Your time should be spent out on the road enjoying the ride. So if it’s the first time you are buying a motorcycle jacket, the process can be quite time consuming. There is a lot of gear out there so it can be difficult to find the right one for you. There are a few things to consider when choosing your jacket.

Here are 4 questions to ask yourself to make the process go a little easier.

1. What sort of riding will you be doing?

• Every day commuting – You may need an ‘all weather jacket’, one that has weatherproof features as the afternoon could well provide different weather conditions than the morning ride into work. Something light and comfortable for everyday use.
• Weekend rides out of town – Choose a quality leather jacket for added protection and abrasion resistance for longer rides of varying speeds.
• Casual riding with destination in mind, generally shorter distance with the focus on the destination requiring a jacket that can be worn as street wear, off the bike and in the crowd.

2. What protective qualities are important for riding?

• Leather – Quality hides from cow, kangaroo and buffalo are considered good choices for protection when motorcycle riding. Minimum thickness of 1.1mm for cow-hide is ideal to give some abrasion resistance should you have an ‘off’ whilst kangaroo can be thinner due to its superior strength. Avoid ‘fashion leather’ such as lamb and sheepskin (often the choice of fashion houses). These are too soft and thin for motorcycle riding and offer little or no protection in a fall.
• Protective lining – If you are choosing a jacket made from materials such as denim, cotton, soft-shell, it will benefit from a protective liner. DuPont Kevlar® fibres is a popular choice for abrasion resistance. It is made in varying thicknesses and abrasion resistance will vary accordingly.
• Armour – This is important for lessening the impact in a fall and to assist in reducing in-jury. This is generally placed in pockets inside clothing in areas such as elbows, shoulders, knees and spine. There are many choices on the market and comfort plays a factor in riders choosing to wear these. They should have a Certified European standards rating.

3. How do you choose the correct fit?

Motorcycle jackets should fit neatly in all areas to avoid movement in a fall.

• Waist/hips should fit firmly to avoid riding up, along with width of cuffs tapering to wrist.
• Leather – When choosing a leather jacket, it is best to have it fit firmly, even a little tight. Leather will naturally relax as you wear it and give in areas where needed. Leather also softens with wear and will feel more and more comfort-able over time.
• Denim, cotton and cordura fabrics have less movement and stretch so choose a jacket from these for exact fit and comfort purchase.

4. How much should you pay?

Think of your jacket as an investment. You have paid a good price for your motorcycle – consider the jacket (and all gear) an extension of the riding experience and worthy of investment too. Think of a cost per wear if that helps and wear it off the bike as well if appropriate. Overtime it is well worth the initial spend and you won’t regret it if you ever are unlucky to come off your bike.

Look after your jacket when not using it, hang it up in a cool dry place and it will last even longer. When you notice damage or wear and tear in your gear, it might be time to replace it.
Although jackets were initially chosen for protection in accidents and weather, the motorcycle accessories market has now evolved so that a jacket can also be chosen to compliment the style of bike and the riding you will do, and even transition as street wear if necessary.

Choose one which is a reflection of you and one you will be happy to wear for some time – both in comfort, protective qualities and style.

Are you on our mailing list? sign up at the bottom of this post so that you don’t miss out on our pop up online sales, and future blogs of course!

Please don’t hesitate to contact us here at Blackbird Motorcycle Wear if you have any questions or want to suggest future motorcycle blog ideas.

]]>https://www.blackbirdmotorcyclewear.com/choose-right-motorcycle-jacket/feed/0Some of The Best Motorbike Rides in Australiahttps://www.blackbirdmotorcyclewear.com/best-motorbike-rides-australia/
https://www.blackbirdmotorcyclewear.com/best-motorbike-rides-australia/#respondTue, 31 Jan 2017 00:35:18 +0000https://www.blackbirdmotorcyclewear.com/?p=6395I started talking to people recently about their favourite rides around Australia and wanted to share this list with you. I know everyone has an opinion on what makes up a great ride but this is just about a fun ride that isn’t your regular commute. It helps you forget about traffic, enjoy taking corners […]

]]>I started talking to people recently about their favourite rides around Australia and wanted to share this list with you. I know everyone has an opinion on what makes up a great ride but this is just about a fun ride that isn’t your regular commute. It helps you forget about traffic, enjoy taking corners and only worry about where you will stop for lunch.

I am sure you will want to add your own and please do, all riders like to hear about great motorbike rides in their area or even a place that might be worth taking a holiday (cairns!) too, to experience it for yourself.

Sydney to Jenolan Caves via Oberon, NSW – it can be done in a day, winding curves and takes you from coast to country, just beautiful

The Oxley highway near Wauchope, NSW – lots of options to extend this ride once you are there and look out for all the nice places to stop for lunch or a post ride drink.

Cairns to Cape Tribulation, Queensland – a once in a lifetime ride, perfect in Winter when it isn’t so hot but what a way to see the Daintree Rainforest

The Great Ocean Road, Victoria – classic ride but weekdays are recommended to avoid the tour buses

Caiguna to Balladonia, Western Australia – the 90 mile stretch of straight road is the longest in Australia. Ok it might be in the middle of WA but if you are riding that way, it is definitely not to be missed

Pretty much all of Tasmania is a fun ride – catch the ferry across from Victoria so you can take your own bike and enjoy.

Anyone done all of these or want to add more comments to any of the 6 recommended. Let us know in the comments below.

The days are long, let’s ride!

Are you on our mailing list? sign up at the bottom of this post so that you don’t miss out on our pop up online sales, and future blogs of course!

Please don’t hesitate to contact us here at Blackbird Motorcycle Wear if you have any questions or want to suggest future motorcycle blog ideas.

]]>https://www.blackbirdmotorcyclewear.com/best-motorbike-rides-australia/feed/0How Many Motorcycle Jackets Should I Own?https://www.blackbirdmotorcyclewear.com/how-many-motorcycle-jackets/
https://www.blackbirdmotorcyclewear.com/how-many-motorcycle-jackets/#respondTue, 03 Jan 2017 00:44:11 +0000https://www.blackbirdmotorcyclewear.com/?p=6374Firstly, Happy new Year everyone! All of us here at Blackbird Motorcycle Wear hope you are enjoying the holiday season. My question for you to consider this month is: How Many Motorcycle Jackets Should I Own? Some instantly reply 1 leather motorcycle jacket but I would argue that sometimes it is too hot to wear […]

]]>Firstly, Happy new Year everyone! All of us here at Blackbird Motorcycle Wear hope you are enjoying the holiday season.

My question for you to consider this month is: How Many Motorcycle Jackets Should I Own?

Some instantly reply 1 leather motorcycle jacket but I would argue that sometimes it is too hot to wear a Leather Jacket or it could have poured with rain on your last ride so what do you wear when your good Leather Motorcycle Jacket is out of action?

I recommend 3 Jackets:

1 – A Good Leather Motorcycle Jacket – the classic motorcycle accessory, it is hard wearing, naturally weather proof (*to a certain extent) and should last you years and years. Ideally something you can wear off the bike too!

2 – A Motorcycle Hoodie Jacket for warmer weather when you don’t want to wear your leathers. It still provides you some protection but without the bulk, a must for Australian summers (40 degrees celcius today!) Cotton, denim or breathable soft-shell with a protective liner is ideal for warm weather – the lighter weight is more comfortable and can act as an extra layer off the bike should the weather change.

3 – A fur or fleece lined motorcycle jacket for the cooler months when you need added layers. Whilst your Leather Motorcycle Jacket would work fine, having the fleece lining reduces the number of layers you need to wear and allows for more ease of movement when riding. These jackets are so cozy you wont want to take them off!

As always you should care for your Jackets to keep them in the best condition and to ensure they last for years and years.

How many do you have?

Are you on our mailing list? sign up at the bottom of this post so that you don’t miss out on our pop up online sales, and future blogs of course!

Please don’t hesitate to contact us here at Blackbird Motorcycle Wear if you have any questions or want to suggest future motorcycle blog ideas.

]]>https://www.blackbirdmotorcyclewear.com/how-many-motorcycle-jackets/feed/0Who wouldn’t want motorbike gear for Christmas?https://www.blackbirdmotorcyclewear.com/motorbike-gear-xmas/
https://www.blackbirdmotorcyclewear.com/motorbike-gear-xmas/#respondMon, 12 Dec 2016 08:35:07 +0000https://www.blackbirdmotorcyclewear.com/?p=6359Well we have made it to the end of the year and for most of us that means holidays. The shop are getting busier, there are children already on holidays from school, and people start to wind down from a busy year that was. Trying to think about what to get loved ones as gifts? […]

]]>Well we have made it to the end of the year and for most of us that means holidays. The shop are getting busier, there are children already on holidays from school, and people start to wind down from a busy year that was. Trying to think about what to get loved ones as gifts? Who amongst us riders wouldn’t love some new Motorbike Gear as a present?

Maybe you know a rider and you aren’t sure what to get them for Christmas, how about a Blackbird Motorcycle Wear Gift Voucher so they can choose something for themselves?

Remember it isn’t the amount that you spend, it is the usefulness of the gift that counts for a rider. We can’t keep using the same motorbike gear for years and years, technology changes, gear gets lighter, smarter, and absolutely nothing beats a New Bike!

Happy Riding and from all of us here at Blackbird Motorcycle Wear we wish you and your families Happy Holidays.

PS: Don’t forget The 6 Gears of Christmas – 6 Days of Deals over the next 2 weeks if you want to bag yourself or your family a useful piece of Motorbike Gear and with our extended return period they can swap it if the size isn’t right or exchange it for something else no questions asked, just keep the receipt. Follow us on Facebook to find out when each deal is released.

Are you on our mailing list? sign up at the bottom of this post so that you don’t miss out on our pop up online sales, and future blogs of course!

Please don’t hesitate to contact us here at Blackbird Motorcycle Wear if you have any questions or want to suggest future motorcycle blog ideas.

]]>https://www.blackbirdmotorcyclewear.com/motorbike-gear-xmas/feed/0Motorbike Gear 101https://www.blackbirdmotorcyclewear.com/motorcycle-gear-101/
https://www.blackbirdmotorcyclewear.com/motorcycle-gear-101/#respondTue, 08 Nov 2016 04:51:25 +0000https://www.blackbirdmotorcyclewear.com/?p=6306Here is our advice on what motorcycle gear every new rider needs and how much they should look to spend to set themselves up. Got yourself a new motorbike or scooter? passed your L plates and ready to start riding? You need motorbike gear. Remember that our number 1 priority as riders is to keep […]

]]>Here is our advice on what motorcycle gear every new rider needs and how much they should look to spend to set themselves up.

Got yourself a new motorbike or scooter? passed your L plates and ready to start riding? You need motorbike gear. Remember that our number 1 priority as riders is to keep ourselves safe and that means protection.

Yes new gear is expensive but if we want to keep ourselves protected you can’t just wing it. Think of a cost per wear if that helps. Buy a $400 jacket, but wear it a few days a week commuting to work, and/or with our gear, wear it off the bike as well! Overtime it is well worth the initial spend and you won’t regret it if you ever are unlucky to come off your bike.

We aren’t all moto GP racers and don’t need to dress like one but you want to make sure your gear is protective and not just comfy/warm/stylish. Tips from our own Blackbird Motorcycle family include:

Your gear at first should be snug, not too loose and you shouldn’t feel too comfortable. If you have leather gear it will stretch so don’t worry if it feels a bit tight.

Wear your gloves and boots around the house a bit to wear them in.

Look after your jacket, when not using it, hang it up in a cool dry place.

Care for your helmet like it is a new born baby. It has the important job of protecting your head, don’t drop your helmet EVER. It will need replacing if you do.

Keep your wet weather outerwear with your bike if you can, rain can happen anytime. Our waterproof jackets are a good option too.

When you notice damage or wear and tear in your gear, it might be time to replace it.

Hopefully this guide helps you get started, stay safe and on the road enjoying your new ride.

Happy riding!

Are you on our mailing list? sign up at the bottom of this post so that you don’t miss out on our pop up online sales, and future blogs of course!

Please don’t hesitate to contact us here at Blackbird Motorcycle Wear if you have any questions or want to suggest future motorcycle blog ideas.

]]>https://www.blackbirdmotorcyclewear.com/blackbird-motorcyclewear-whatever-destination/feed/0On Trend: Shearling Style Motorbike Gearhttps://www.blackbirdmotorcyclewear.com/shearling-style-motorbike-gear/
https://www.blackbirdmotorcyclewear.com/shearling-style-motorbike-gear/#respondTue, 18 Oct 2016 05:55:34 +0000https://www.blackbirdmotorcyclewear.com/?p=6275From Runway to the Fast lane, Shearling Jackets have long been a fashion style that looks great both on and off the bike. First appearing on the collars of US pilot bomber jackets in the 1940’s, the shearling collar is back on trend. Our shearling style motorbike gear has been inspired by the runways and […]

]]>From Runway to the Fast lane, Shearling Jackets have long been a fashion style that looks great both on and off the bike. First appearing on the collars of US pilot bomber jackets in the 1940’s, the shearling collar is back on trend.

source: www.vogue.com

Our shearling style motorbike gear has been inspired by the runways and current trends for those of us lady riders who don’t want to just wear a plain black bike jacket everyday.

Whilst not really a warm weather necessity, the benefit of the shearling collar is that if there is a chill or wind factor, you can just turn up your collar and you can stay comfortable.

Not forgetting that we are in the business of motorbike gear, the great thing about our ladies faux fur leather jacket is that it isn’t fully sheepskin lined so you won’t overheat and our nubuck cropped jacket is shearling lined in the torso with satin lining on the sleeves for maneuverability.

We also have the previous edit of the ladies faux fur leather jacket in our clearance store at a reduced price if you want to follow the trend but don’t want to over commit.

Pair your jacket with a long sleeved tee and dark denim for an effortlessly cool look this season on or off the bike, your shearling style motorbike gear has got you covered.

Happy Riding!

Are you on our mailing list? sign up at the bottom of this post so that you don’t miss out on our pop up online sales, and future blogs of course!

Please don’t hesitate to contact us here at Blackbird Motorcycle Wear if you have any questions or want to suggest future motorcycle blog ideas.

]]>https://www.blackbirdmotorcyclewear.com/shearling-style-motorbike-gear/feed/0Spring Cycle: The Season of Changehttps://www.blackbirdmotorcyclewear.com/spring-cycle-season-change/
https://www.blackbirdmotorcyclewear.com/spring-cycle-season-change/#respondTue, 13 Sep 2016 22:18:24 +0000https://www.blackbirdmotorcyclewear.com/?p=6214In the Southern Hemisphere the weather is on the turn. New leaves are on the trees, the days are getting longer and the warmth is on our backs. Its time to hit the road for a sunny Sunday in Spring motorcycle ride and you just can’t wait but how do we dress? It’s cold if […]

]]>In the Southern Hemisphere the weather is on the turn. New leaves are on the trees, the days are getting longer and the warmth is on our backs. Its time to hit the road for a sunny Sunday in Spring motorcycle ride and you just can’t wait but how do we dress?

It’s cold if we head out first thing, it’s hot during the middle of the day and the wind picks up in the afternoon and the evening chill has a bit of bite.

But what is the alternative, not go for a ride, please… so be prepared for the changeability of Spring with out top 5 tips for a spring day’s ride:

1. We suggest layers that you can remove as the weather heats up. A tshirt, a motorcycle hoodie or vest and a motorcycle jacket.

2. Consider lightweight gloves or leather gloves with perforated holes to allow ventilation where you can still wear liners if its cool.

3. Bike check – if you haven’t ridden for a while, give your bike the once over – tyres, brakes, oil, mirrors etc. You don’t want to spoil your ride on a beautiful spring day.

4. Pop a face warmer under you seat just in case the wind picks up in the afternoon.

5. Pack wet weather gear, you never know how the weather may change.

What are you waiting for? Get out there and ride. Remember, 2 Wheels Move The Soul.

Happy (Spring) Riding!

Are you on our mailing list? sign up at the bottom of this post so that you don’t miss out on our pop up online sale, coming VERY soon!

Please don’t hesitate to contact us here at Blackbird Motorcycle Wear if you have any questions or want to suggest future motorcycle blog ideas.

]]>https://www.blackbirdmotorcyclewear.com/spring-cycle-season-change/feed/0Help Dad look good this Father’s Dayhttps://www.blackbirdmotorcyclewear.com/fathers-day/
https://www.blackbirdmotorcyclewear.com/fathers-day/#respondMon, 29 Aug 2016 06:33:48 +0000https://www.blackbirdmotorcyclewear.com/?p=6200Father’s Day in Australia is the first Sunday in September. This year that makes it 4 September. We have given you our list of the top 5 sellers on our website which we hope will inspire you to help dad look cool this Father’s Day. 1. Waterproof Hoodie – Our waterproof hoodie not only looks […]

]]>Father’s Day in Australia is the first Sunday in September. This year that makes it 4 September. We have given you our list of the top 5 sellers on our website which we hope will inspire you to help dad look cool this Father’s Day.

1. Waterproof Hoodie – Our waterproof hoodie not only looks good as a casual jacket in fair weather, it will protect you in sudden downpours. Perfect for unpredictable weather and looks great on or off the bike. Great for the casual dad

2. Nubuck leather jacket – This suede feel, nubuck leather biker jacket says great outdoors & wilderness, in the country and the city. Great for the outdoorsy dad

3. Cafe Racer Leather Jacket – Our Cafe Racer leather jacket features a streamlined design and short stand up collar typical of the style. Inspired by the Café Racer scenes of the 60’s and 70’s the retro styling still looks great today. Great for the stylish dad

4. Retro Leather Jacket – The style of this leather jacket is reminiscent of the military field jackets of WW2. Variations of this style have been worn by many, from Bob Marley to Robert De Niro.. Great for the classic dad

5. Green Military Jacket – The Military field jacket was not only a popular style in the 40’s, but has been modified and reinvented time and again for various vocations. Our Green Military Jacket is practical as well as flattering and an enduring fashion item on and off the motorbike. Great for the young or young at heart dad

Not sure of his size? Perhaps a gift voucher with a print out of this blog and a big arrow pointing at the jacket you think would suit his style best would be a smart choice. Or let him choose and you can spend as little or as much as you like on the voucher to get him the motorbike jacket of his dreams.

Whatever you choose to get your dad this Father’s Day, make sure to let him know how great he is.